A lavish cocktail reception and fund-raiser was held recently at the Garden of the Groves to celebrate its 40th Anniversary.
More than 100 guests attended and a variety of companies purchased corporate tables to give their staff an evening of elegance.
Upon entering the site at the Garden, cafe guests were awed by a setting of white covered chairs that had been tied with aqua sashes. Tables were set in white linen accented with black and gold trimmings. This theme was to also celebrate our country’s 40th birthday highlighting the national colours.
Upon the setting sun candle light flickered in the light breeze.
Music was provided by Leo Saunders and his team who serenaded the crowd throughout the evening. Guests took advantage of the open cocktail bar and mouth-watering hors d’oeuvres. The substantial buffet was complemented by native pastries.
The highlight of the evening was the live auction. Professional auctioneer. Kaza Veilleux, a winter resident from Portland, Maine, wowoed the crowd with his charm, turning pockets inside out!
A variety of beautiful items had been donated by the business community like Furniture Plus, Abaco Neem, The Bahamian Brewery, The Art of Giving as well as by Artisans from Gena’s Coconut Jewellry, Forbes Straw Works, Cynthia’s Sand Art, Leslie’s Gallery, Gladys’ Beach Art. There were also pieces from private collections of Ivy Elden, Ed and Erika Gates and Lou Lihou.
This auction was not only a succes but it also reached its financial goal of providing the Garden of the Groves with a much needed handrail up the steps leading to the chapel on the hill.
During the evening a special welcome was extended to the Groves family represented by Graham Groves and his wife Peggy. Erika Gates and Marilyn Laing presented the couple with a bouquet.
Barbara Chester, who has supported the Garden since its restoration in 2007 by conceptualizing, building and donating the beautiful Labyrinth, was honoured for her contribution and received a bouquet of her favourite colour roses.
Overall the evening was one to remember. General Manager Marilyn Laing, remarked: “The Garden of the Groves is forever grateful to the many visitors and Bahamians who have supported us these past 40 years. We strive to continuously improve our property so that each visit will be an experience to remember by young and old!”
By The Freeport News